Northridge Road

House : a building for human habitation, especially one that is lived in by a family or small group of people.

Home: the place where you feel that you belong, usually because your ideas or attitudes are the same as those of the people who live there.

The year is 2020. Clay and I come home from Rodeo Grand Island. The world is shutting down. We live in a little loft apartment which was exactly what we needed at the time when we moved in July 2018. A few days later I got to work (a job I just started) and found out we would be closing for 2 weeks. Deep cleaning and time to process all that is COVID-19.

What the heck are we going to do? We hang on to each other and our pups. My big brother suggest we try these porch photos that he saw on social media. We give it a go. It turns into a joke and a really good time; we are going to put all this money we make from our porch sessions into a down payment for a house, a porch for a porch. Mind you, we were charging $25 per session. But we were on a mission!

We found a house! We loved the photos online and we drove by on the way to another porch session. A townhome!? We don’t want a townhome. But we called our realtor anyway. Let’s take a look.

Felt like a home. I couldn’t believe all the potential it had for us! Buying a home during COVID while we are both self employed was, to say the least, a process. But we made it! We closed on our home, June 19, 2020! A little dead end road, complete with turkey and deer, a quiet little lane with welcoming neighbors and a roof of our own. Sigh. Makes my heart so full!

We rode out a pandemic here. We grew a business here. We hit milestones here. We added the best hound to our family here. We dreamed and planned here. We got married here. We became “The Guardipees” on Northridge Road. Man. We grew.

Now it’s February 2024. We come home from Grand Island (dang, that place must be good luck, haha!). We had decided to update our flooring in our bedroom and the carpet on our stairs. Keeping things fresh with 3 little pups in the house. I left to go to work for the day. The guy is literally finishing the carpet on the stairs the same day and Clay sends me a link, “We should go check out this house.” I’m not surprised really. Clay checks the housing market weekly. A beautiful multi level home, close to the golf course, in our price range, that checked quite a few boxes on our list. So I say yes. We go check it out on a Monday. I decided I want to go back and look at it. I get there Thursday and take my mom. Clay doesn’t need to look again, he’s sold. We put in an offer, they accept and we use the weekend to get our house ready to sell.

We are throwing and purging and cleaning. Felt so good. At this point after being gone for about 9 months off and on, it felt good to get things back in order. They come Sunday to photo the house (dang, it’s cute!). List it, late Sunday evening. 9 days. Our little townhome full of dreams, laughs, failure, prayers and love sold in 9 days. To the next deserving family. I was so excited. I was so sad. So happy. A little scared? Someone else gets to move into my space where all my cherished memories are held. My dear friend reminded me, “you love the memories, not the thing.” Many encouraged me that new memories are to be made and bigger things to check off the list! I joke that Clay signed the papers and started packing but it’s hardly a joke, haha. I’m packing things carefully and thoughtfully, crying in the corner (ok, I’m being dramatic) and he’s all “hurry up, next box comin’ your way!”

So, here we are! We’ve been unpacking and dreaming and planning to make this new house our home! We are excited to continue to grow and learn as we go. I suppose it’s all part of the adult process right? We all face stepping stones and firsts and I will tell you, I will be forever grateful for the little townhome at the end of the lane.

-Ty (& Clay)

Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year 2023

Rodeo Rapid City in the books! Incredible. I am so honored to be apart of such an amazing week with a family that works around the clock to produce such a high caliber rodeo. Literally around the clock.

Nothing better than 10 days in the same spot with all your people! The week was jam packed with all the things: prep work and correspondence with every moving piece, media interview set up, great food, reunions with the BEST people, stage shows with host Garrison Allen, the 1st annual Newlywed Game, so much laughing and of course rodeo.

There’s no other way to describe it other than a beast all its own; however, it’s always an experience, one I hope we don’t ever have to give up.

Clay shared his locker room with Logan Allen and they created some amazing content. They had been planning since October. I think it turned out awesome. They created “the box”.

Amy graciously gave Clay and Garrison a slot on the Rodeo Zone stage where they were able to interview some great guests for the Starched Podcast. You can listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starched/id1488521798

A few other highlights from the week: hitting up the Windsor Block, flash tattoos with the gang during Ladies Night, charcuterie style office recap nights, and 7 packed rodeo performances that went off without a hitch!

Fingers crossed the Sutton Family takes home Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year for 2024. No one deserves it more!

Another one down!

-Ty (& Clay)

Year 5

Another NFR came and went in flash! I can’t believe that we are already headed into our second weekend at Rodeo Rapid City. Soon it will be February and we will be on the downhill slide of winter (thank God!).

Where to even begin? We had such smooth travels when we went to Vegas this year. Not too cold, no ice, a little wind which is fairly normal when your traveling the prairie, and smooth roads home before the holidays.

We took the Starched Podcast on the road with us to Vegas this year and it was so fun sharing that experience with our amazing friend Garrison Allen. The idea of Starched started after Christmas last (December 2022) so to have it come full circle as the first year of interviewing people in the city of Bright Lights seemed like such a big accomplishment for the boys. So proud of them for sticking with a strict schedule to get content out even during such a random and hectic rodeo schedule between the two of them!

We started the week off with the back number ceremony and the awards banquet. Always such a great kick off to the crazy when you get to spend the first couple days with all the people we spend all year rodeoing with under one roof. So fun getting dressed up and recognizing all their hard work from the year.

Round 1 was delayed because of the awful shooting that happened at the UNLV campus on Wednesday December 6th. It was such a somber day for so many. We are mindful of those that lost their lives that day and are thankful that our rodeo family was safe and unharmed during that time. With the switch up of Round 1, we were able to be apart of the Inaugural Slack performance at the rodeo. Round 1 kicked off on Friday and we hit the ground running!

Well. Maybe I didn’t. Clay was so gracious to send me and my friend Emma to the Carrie Underwood Reflections show! What a blast. Emma is fellow photographer and friend Click Thompson’s assistant. We both felt a little guilty going towards Resorts World instead of the Thomas and Mack but was well worth it when the first note hit! If you have never been, I highly recommend.

We shared some time with both of our families briefly while they visited Vegas as well. Both our parents were able to attend the awards banquet where Rodeo Rapid City was crowned 2023 Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year and where Clay was nominated in the Top 5 for Photographer of the Year. My parents hit up the rodeo and we shared a few meals with Clay’s parents before sending them back to AZ.

Clay followed Governor Kristie Noem around before she carried the flag for the opening ceremonies of Round 3. She was shocked he was from South Dakota!

Of course sharing the 3 weeks away is much easier when your pals are involved. I am forever grateful to this rodeo trail for blessing me with some of my very best friends, that have amazing qualities and huge hearts that make being away from home not so hard. Catching back up with Emma and Laney is always a treat and crossing paths for the first time with Brittany was so good for my heart! Being surrounded by whole hearted women that are motivated fills my cup right back to the top!

The late nights, the traffic, the early mornings, the blisters, the fashion, the food, the people. Louder for the people in the back that this is why we do what we do! Thanks for everyone who is on our journey of capturing a small moment in time but a big lifetime memory for some special cowboys in this country. I always wondered how I would keep rodeo in my life; it was something I never wanted to go away and now I know I am exactly where I need to be. I’m one of the lucky ones, living the rat race right alongside my husband who has so graciously given me the adventure of a lifetime.

Thank you Year 5 for the memories and taking care of us. I never know how we will top it, but we are sure going to try.

-Ty (&Clay)

A Night to Remember

If you take Tyann on the road for 3 weeks and end the stay at the Nebraska State Fair, the same time as her beloved South Dakota State Fair (a story for a different time), she will have all the time in the world to conjure up something good. One more while watching the mini horse show (which I also decided is my retirement plan) I learned what Audible was, shopped for Christmas on my phone, brainstormed ideas for an event planning business, which in favor lead to the idea of a gallery event to celebrate my husband. Give a girl some time and look what she can achieve!

The end of August is likely when the PRCA photographers start selecting photos for their selection portfolios. We had the state fair to finish, headed back west to shoot a wedding, to drive five hours back east and do some laundry, repack and head back west to Pendleton for the Roundup. We sat at the kitchen table a few nights and pulled some favorites, nixed a few, pulled some back in and then came up with the Top 15 to throw in the portfolio. He submitted and we took off to take in the Pendleton Roundup festivities.

Back to the Nebraska State Fair: I sat in the stands and emailed a new local venue called the 215 Marketplace, that had been renovated into a stunning floor plan with white brick and beams and original wood floors. What a random conversation to have with someone: “Hi, I need to book your venue. But I don’t know if I need to book your venue.” It was the waiting game we would play. Year 5 was in the windshield but not necessarily clinched just yet. I was so grateful to all of my vendors who so graciously held my date without even knowing if said event would happen. Now to keep my mouth shut when we would be driving 5000+ miles in the six weeks.

After Clay submitted his portfolio, I had to think of a way to get it in my possession. I told him that all my clients at the salon always ask me how he gets picked, so I wanted to be able to explain the process to them and then show them. He bought it. And in my defense it wasn’t a total lie! On our way to the INFR in Vegas we were in no man’s land Wyoming. Cell service was sketchy and Clay had two missed call and a text to call back (the PRCA that is). So he made the phone call back and they asked him to shoot his 5th NFR, behind the scenes. I got goosebumps again and my heart swelled. I am so proud of how far we have come and so incredibly grateful for every opportunity that has presented itself to us. Many more miles to go and planning a night to remember was all I could focus on.

When we got to Vegas Clay had a few media meetings to attend. My mom made the trip to help us with our booth. With Clay gone now was my time to act! I confirmed the venue, the food (charcuterie with Mallory from Urban Grazings), the band (Casey and Carleen from The Barn Flies), and of course discussed the beverage bar with my dad. Now, how to get him there?

Not sure if many of you know this but I am the brains behind the calendar at RodeoReady. I’m the reason we shoot sunrise sessions and sessions right after rodeos and seniors everyday of the summer. Can’t hardly complain when I’m the problem, haha. So I said to my mom, “Who can we ask to text Clay, that is planning an event, so he won’t have their phone number?” We knew the perfect person, Patti. I called Patti (who was very nervous so we made up a script). “What if he asks who I am?” “Just say your name is Patti Johnson or something!” Her name is definitely not Patti Johnson. I said, “He will most likely text you back and say my wife will be in contact, he won’t ask any details, that’s my job.”

Clay comes back to the room, quick to work on his computer. We are sitting in the hotel for about 20 minutes when he says, “Hey, by the way, some lady is planning some kind of party. I told her you would get in touch with her. Patti Johnson?” Yahtzee.

“What kind of party?”

“I don’t know you’ll just have to text her.”

So I did. I told her, it worked!

“How much should we charge? Sounds like some candids, family photos. Her daughter just got married, sounds like it’s the reception. They must’ve eloped or destination wedding or something.”

“How about $800?”

“I’ll ask her.”

I waited about 20 mins to respond and said, “She said that works. I put it in the calendar.”

He is going to be so mad he isn’t making $800.

So that was that. It was on the calendar. I started messaging all our people. I had reached out to people in Pendleton too and just told them to save the date. When I found out if he was selected, I would be in touch. I got on Canva and made this cute little invite I could send to people. We all know Clay LOVES to dress up so I thought making it a black tie event would be perfection. Some people panicked but everyone looked incredible.

The week of the event Clay had NOTHING on the books. He was to stay at home and keep editing. My paranoia was spiking. Our good friends asked for some horse photos for a sale catalog, they were also invited to the party. I texted to ask if she had seen Clay yet for the day. Crickets. She texted me back about 3 hours later and said he just left. I said I just wanted to remind her it was a surprise, too late now but their lips were sealed. WHEW. We all know Clay golfs with the old guys everyday at 2 pm in the summer time. After said tee time they go to Thirsty’s at 4 pm for the “golf meeting”. Jim, our neighbor, met Clay outside on Tuesday and said, you haven’t been around, you know we still go to the meeting, you could check in with all of us. I had ONE of the golfers phone numbers so ONE guy was relaying all the info. I panicked! “Hey, remind everyone it’s a surprise please!?” I was on pins and needles and tried to talk Clay out of the meeting until the following week. He went but didn’t seem suspicious. Check. Another one down. THEN. We had to do some headshots for some close friends (the couple that introduced us to be exact). They came to the house, I told Clay if we are putting it all up we might as well do my dad’s new headshot as well. Nathan asked to borrow one of Clay’s hat because it was black, he said he had meeting to attend and he was to dress up. He took Clay’s hat, to wear to Clay’s party. We all went out for supper. Someone asked, what do you guys have going this weekend? I replied with all the details about Patti Johnson’s party (which they were all coming to). Everything was falling into place nicely.

Well. We made it to Friday. My first line of duty was to sneak one of Clay’s NFR buckle out of the house. I was going to find out just how observant he was. They are in plain sight on the way to his office. I decided if he did noticed and ask I was going to tell him to not ask questions at Christmas (my mom’s famous line around the holidays). We spent the day at the 215 Marketplace setting up. It came together nicely. We all had lunch at the shoe shop and I told Clay I had to get back to the salon for my next client. He went home and I drove around the block.

We started hanging the prints. He had 3 vertical prints and the rest were horizontal which was very esthetically pleasing. They really popped against the white brick wall. I couldn’t wait to see it with the night light and the ambiance of the band and everyone all dressed up. I was half emotional hanging them! We had discussed doing a gallery numerous times, to have all our friends dress up and do something late winter when there is nothing to do and everyone is sick of being inside. He always told me that he didn’t have the right photos yet. I said yeah right and started plotting.

Getting home “from work” for the day was another obstacle. The guy that LOVES to dress up pulled out clothes from the back of his closet that I am sure he coached basketball in 12 years ago. Are you kidding me!? I was taking my sweet time getting ready and Mustache Man was hangry. “You are taking forever. You are acting like this is our party!” I asked him a couple times, “That’s what your wearing?” “We don’t even know these people!” Oh boy, we were in for a great night! He was also on the phone with his Starched co-host and good pal Garrison saying, “I hope this thing doesn’t last all night.” as they were hoping to record a podcast yet that night. Whoops!

So he hustled me out the door to go eat something. You guys, he was in the driver seat. I was playing roulette and it was scary. Thank goodness DWU had a home basketball game so the Scoreboard was full. We ventured to Blarney’s and it felt like they served us in 5 minutes. I was able to stall for about 40 mins and then we paid our tab, left, me in the driver seat and off we went. The parking lot was full from our crowd and the movie theater crowd. He asked about carrying lights in and I told him to just bring his camera, we could say hello and get a lay of the land and how they had the place decorated. So we started towards the door. He was reading the marquee so he was completely preoccupied. When we stepped up on the sidewalk, he saw Casey from The Barn Flies.

“Hey, Casey’s here.”

“Oh, yeah?”

“There are some cowboy hats in there. I know someone.”

“Hmm.”

“There are a lot of people I know in here.”

I opened the door and everyone was cheering! I did it! We walked in and dare I say he was speechless? I think so. Our people showed up! I still get emotional thinking about it.

“I’m not shooting tonight, am I?” No sir. Enjoy! It takes a lot of people to do what we do. Our parents are so supported, we have fantastic friends that show up for us no matter the circumstances, probably think we are crazy for doing what we do but nonetheless dive in wholeheartedly supporting RodeoReady as we run up and down the road. Thank you to everyone who made the night possible. We have also decided that our friends clean up pretty nice and it was such a fun time, it’s something we may want to try and do every year.

Now here we are, 5 days away from Round 1 of the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Can’t wait to see everyone in Vegas, say hi if you see us! Also please enjoy these photos that we had developed from film cameras that everyone could get their hands on the night of the gallery! So much fun.

Stay Tuned.

-Ty (& Clay)

6 Weeks of Summer

It seems like it was a marathon but after counting it out, it was only about 6 weeks. I can’t believe what we can pack into such a short amount of time.

A trend of the summer was rain. Seems odd in South Dakota but I know that everyone was grateful for the moisture.

We started the muddy madness at Crystal Springs Rodeo in Clear Lake South Dakota. I rodeoed most of the summers of my life and I do not remember the water like it was there this year. The photos? Perfection!

So thankful for the committee at Crystal Springs who have turned into wonderful friends that open their home to us during the event. It was fun having our pals Garrison (Starched) and Logan (videographer) tag along with us. Add this rodeo to your list if you’ve never been: an electric atmosphere that’s one of a kind!

We were home for about 3 days and thought we should hit the road west for the Black Hills Roundup. An amazing place to be to celebrate our country’s birthday! We had beautiful weather but just like I stated before, wouldn’t be complete without some puddles. I got to spend some time side by side miss Janie, who was working on the video feed for the roundup. You all know me, I love a fast friend. Oscar got to tag along for this trip and he’s an old seasoned rodeo dog for sure. We made it thru 3 perfs before the rains come but when they showed up, they came in full force! After the bull riding was finished up on the 4th, I was the getaway car right outside the fence. Clay jumped in and we headed to our next stop: Bigfork, Montana.

We laid over in Billings and made the rest of the trip on Wednesday July 5th. There is something about western Montana in the summer (*sigh*). One of my favorite places to be and even better place to rodeo. They pack the place, it’s incredible! We snagged some good food and some family time. Clay’s brother Caleb roped and his parents joined us for the weekend.

16 hours home. Home to try our hand at some more senior photos and a new rodeo, The Burke Stampede. Such a nostalgic place for me; Burke is where my first youth rodeo was. How fun to come back in a different light but still enjoy what we do out on the prairie in South Dakota! Thanks to Burke for trying us out this year.

We rounded out july with senior sessions daily, that included, downtown Sioux Falls, private creeks, wildflowers, barn lofts, swimming with horses, outrunning thunderstorms (check out the clouds), and the best sunsets with some of the best young adults that are getting ready for their best year yet!

But wait! There’s more.

Up next: Watertown PRCA, a couple weddings, Baker MT, Range Days Rapid City, and the Nebraska State Fair.

Hang on.

-Ty (& Clay)

Early Summer Run

It’s been nothing but go since the snow melted. So thankful for our small little break at home this spring and now it’s been nonstop. Early summer brought engagement sessions, a family trip and a couple weddings.

It’s not very often we take the time to do a trip but my parents turning 60 seemed like the perfect time. We took in a Twins game with my family and it was a blast. The weather was a little chilly but we had an awesome time just enjoying each other’s company. Although the trip was for my parents I myself thoroughly enjoyed watching my niece and nephew love on the ball park. I’m definitely pot or kettle saying this but take the time, you won’t regret it.

Early June was great for catching early families and seniors. The sun felt good after the long winter and the cool spring and we were grateful to be back at it. Soon our summer would pick up and we would be back on the rodeo trail. This year we have been so fortunate to be traveling for a lot of our senior sessions. It’s been so fun shooting in other places than just down the street. You can’t believe some of the places we have seen!

Stay turned for mid summer recap!

-Ty (& Clay)

Rodeo Rapid City 2023

We headed west mid January for our favorite rodeo of the year. It’s hard to beat in the beautiful Monument Summit Arena with a top notch crew. Rodeo Rapid City was nothing short of amazing. All the laughs and the time together, make all the hard work and long days extra special

I think for 2023 we are working to surpass what it is we have already done. Keeping our eye on the prize but willing to take some chances and switch up. At Rodeo Rapid City, I am the Sutton Rodeo Office Manager. I am honored they have brought me on the crew and it has given me a different perspective to all things production of an event of its caliber. My time is limited with Clay but I was so proud of him for rolling with some of his new ideas for this rodeo. He has his own space here; it makes it a lot easier to create on site. He has been wanting to do some portrait work and I think what he accomplished is incredible (biased obviously). I love the locker room feel and it definitely feels “behind the scenes” for sure.

Another first this year: the first ever official poster for Rodeo Rapid City! I think they turned out wonderful and have a unique, vintage feel. The artist that created it fit the vibe perfect and the poster itself was designed by Steve Grey, fellow PRCA and NFR photographer, and Clay. We still have some available [add to cart].

The crew never gets old and if you’ve been here for awhile you know my take on all of it. Nothing better than spending two weeks with some of the best people a girl could ask for. Most days I need to pinch myself of the life we get to live. They push us to be better, they push us right out of our comfort zone (hello, Clay and I eat sushi now!), and they aren’t friends anymore, they family!

If you’ve never taken it in, get Rodeo Rapid City 2024 on your schedule: January 26 - February 3, 2024. You will not be disappointed!

Stay tuned for details about Rodeo Grand Island. Wrapping our winter run and then home for awhile will be nice. However we won’t know how to act and when we are back it, there will be no end in sight; just the way we like it!

-Ty (& Clay)

Is this a broken record?

It’s 11:34 on Saturday night. I’m sitting at the kitchen table listening to my dogs bark and procrastinating packing for our favorite rodeo of the year, Rodeo Rapid City. We leave tomorrow.

A lot of people in the last few months have asked, “Oh it’s winter now, you guys are probably winding down.” “There are no rodeos up here in the winter, right?” “You made it! Now a break.” Wrong. We traveled to Vegas twice in two weeks. Once for the Indian National Finals Rodeo and back again the end of November for the National Finals Rodeo. Both humbling experiences and grateful for the opportunity, we always love a good Vegas trip. So very grateful to share our NFR experience with friends that feel like family. Thankful for our 4th trip the bright lights to document another fantastic NFR.

We quite literally raced home to outrun a snow storm. We made it safely and parked in the garage as it had started raining about 100 miles from home. We learned our Viva Sue loves the snow, that the when the wind blows just right the drift is as tall as me right outside the front door and that we are so tired of shoveling but still grateful for our very own driveway to take care of! We decided on a home purge that we are still in the middle of but I'm sure only started from being stir crazy at home (I'm not sure why I complain. With Clay working from home he feels like he is home. I, on the other hand, feel like we are on the road more than in my own bed.) Our holidays were quiet and chill and the salon has stayed busy in between road trips.

We packed our bags and headed to Montana the second week of January. The further west we drove the less snow there was. We were welcomed with 45 degree weather for most of the week. Such a nice change of pace. Clay's family joined us from Arizona and Caleb competed in his first circuit finals appearance. He roped smart and well and we are so proud of him! My heart was bursting; he rode his black horse "Blackie", who he purchased from me in the fall of 2018. He has done such a great job with him and I'm so glad I know where my little project horse ended up.

Home again, home again to do laundry. work all week at the salon and repack for Rodeo Rapid City.

I can't believe it's this time again. I can't believe it's been a year since the big proposal (that I still haven't written about). This is year 5 for us. 5 years of growing RodeoReady with the BEST people that saw some kind of weird connection in the two of us, that kept believing in us, that gave us the confidence to just go out and do what we do! I'm so thankful for that. Here we come Rapid; back to a big opportunity, with bigger ideas than the first time and hugs packed away to share with all our favorites over the next two weeks. Do you see where I'm going with us? Do you understand my title now? If I've said it once, I've said it one thousand times and I won't stop saying it! RodeoReady grew up on seizing opportunities, taking chances and connecting with like minded people that love rodeo and good people. Ah, my heart.

If you're in Rapid come say hi! We can't wait to be back the Summit arena at the Monument

See you somewhere

Ty (& Clay)

What is an A Team?

Your A team may not be the best but they are your best. Read that again.

Some people are given the world. The world to some is not the most talented, not the fastest or most athletic and some of them are not lookers. I grew up with a fire in my heart for horses. I honestly think you’re born with it in your blood as my grandpa was an avid horseman and my mama held her own in the rodeo arena. I was taught young that you have what you have and you deal with that and make the most of the situation. To me, sometimes try beats talent and fortunately that’s been one of the biggest lessons in my life.

I will never claim to have been the best in my short rodeo career but I loved it and tried my hardest. It’s funny looking back you always wonder if you took it seriously enough however you’re still a kid and kids do kid things. One thing I know for sure is rodeo taught me my best lessons in life.. *Que “Dear Rodeo”*

I got my first teammate when I was 13. A big gray horse that was gifted to me on my 13th birthday from my parents. I rode him all summer and couldn’t stop talking about him. “We didn’t want you to be blue on your birthday so we brought Blu to you.” I knew instantly after reading the birthday card what it meant. I cried at 13. I was the luckiest girl in the world! My parents made an investment in my future ; they had no idea what it would do for my character. He came to me as a 4 year old. A grade, cowy horse that was way bigger than me but was a blank canvas. I spent hours riding down the driveway at my grandparents, in and out of the arena, thru pastures and corn fields by myself. I said good morning and good night to the horse that always got out and drove everyone else crazy. When I got into high school I wanted him to be closer to town. So he got to come live with my second family. *Enter: Teammate 2*

Teammate 2: Herman. A big sorrel with a white face. Even more intimidating to me than my big gray (who was turning white at this point). He has a mind of his own and he couldn’t never just walk. Herman taught me that smooth was quick and that personal best goes a long ways. He knew his job and he was good at it. He was going to be a step up horse for me. An opportunity that I didn’t know would ever be given to me and I tried to ride him to the best of my ability. He and I were just getting in a groove when he got hurt my senior year right before regionals for high school rodeo. *Step in opportunity, Teammate #3*

Teammate 3: Quincy. A been there, done that horse I never knew I needed. A borrowed blessing who gave me more confidence than I knew what to do with. He was the one that taught me I knew what I was doing when I thought I wasn’t capable. Quincy was my “everyone should have a chance to ride the fast one” horse.

I could shout from the mountain tops  how much I wish I would have done, could have done and how much I wish I would have accomplished while rodeoing. My grandpa would tell you if I didn’t have bad luck, I wouldn’t have any. Did I have bad days in the rodeo arena? Doesn’t everyone? However, I loved competing, I loved traveling with my horses and some of my absolute best memories are from rodeo arenas on the weekends (some things never change).

My heart horses taught me so many lessons; lessons nothing short of trial and error, small victories, determination and patience.

A few weeks ago I had to say goodbye to Herman. I hadn’t seen him up close for years and when my second mama texted to tell me it was time, I knew I had to get there. I wandered out to see him on a beautiful fall day. I just stood there, enjoying one last moment with Herman who was finally standing still after all the years of prancing around. And my heart! You can’t imagine how it bursted with pride and such a sweet ache. I could never thank this horse for all he did for me: the try, the mental clarity on hard days and the never give in attitude.

So whether you’re riding for fun or you have buckles lining your walls remember why you started. Remember why you swung a leg over in the beginning; maybe at 4 or maybe at 14. It really doesn’t matter. My A team taught me to do a little bit better than the first time, slow down, and to be grateful for every opportunity that is presented to you. Not everyone is as lucky as we are that own 4 legged friends. And if your still lucky enough to be competing, don’t forget to be incredibly grateful for every ride and practice, even on the off days.

‘There are things that a horse did for me that a human couldn’t have done.’

Weddings RodeoReady Style

In love? Engaged? Can’t wait to tie the knot? We got you covered. Over the past four years, couples have trusted us with their big day. It’s been a learning curve and it’s been a challenge but it’s also one of our most rewarding jobs.

Back in 2018, one of my dear friend’s asked if Clay shot weddings one day when I was doing her hair. I was slightly shocked and didn’t know how to answer and then said, “Well, he’s never done one but I don’t know why not?” I asked Clay about it when I got home from work and he didn’t really know what to say either. We decided it could be worth a shot. So we started Pinterest-ing and YouTube-ing and tried to create an experience out of something we had never done before!

Our wedding package includes your engagement session. This is a great way to understand our style while shooting (more or less that I’m the bossy one and Clay will take the photos). We try to create a laid back experience. More than likely you’ve never done this before and we want you to feel comfortable in front of the camera. We tell stupid jokes and say random things that usually result in laughter and relax you and your significant other right into the best parts of the session.

What to expect on wedding day? On time, fast photos that won’t leave you tired and annoyed!  Ha! No but really. This is your day! Yes, you have to spend it with us and we try to make that as painless as possible (I make it sound like that’s hard, Clay always says we are a good time)! You and your partner, wedding party photos and then family photos of course. We will stick around for the ceremony and reception and capture those sweet first dances as well.

In just over a month, Clay and I will say “I do”. The most asked questions about our wedding is “who takes a photographer’s wedding photos?” and “who is doing your hair?” I’m happy to say we found and agreed on a photographer, Riley Zoss, whose local to the Mitchell area and takes mostly livestock photos. We decided for us a collaboration was best and he will be taking our photos and Clay will do the editing. It hard to give up all the control when you do it for a living. Maybe not what everyone else would’ve done but it’s been a great compromise for us! Back to giving up control, that’s why I still haven’t decided if I’m doing my own hair yet!?

If you have any questions regarding wedding photography please reach out! We are happy to accommodate your needs be it elopement, destination, or a home town wedding! Let us help you create your once in a lifetime day!

Now excuse me while I panic that I’m getting married in 32 days.

-Ty (& Clay)

Take a Minute

I was taught in hair school that there are a few things you don’t talk about with a client. They are as follows: politics, religion and yourself. I find this more prominent in the world today. Life gets HEAVY. The world is HEAVY. For me, I lean on my God when life is hard and I know that’s not the case for everyone floating through my chair. Aside from the back story, I have a had few epiphanies this week. Clay and I have been home. It’s odd. It’s nice. It’s refreshing. We have even eaten supper before 7. That NEVER happens. 

Anyway. In the last few weeks we have gotten to be apart of some pretty special things. I had some overwhelming feelings because of it. One event: a small blessing of marriage at the church. Another: taking family photos because a Mom has cancer and is starting chemo and wants her hair in photos. These are big milestones for people. Big. Huge. Life changing. I sat in the church and thought, “We are the lucky ones.” People call Clay and me to be apart of BIG things. That is pressure. That is humbling and extremely overwhelming. I prayed at church that we would fulfill what those around us wanted. Because they can choose whoever they want to capture these things, but they chose us. Clay will tell you for sure that I cry at commercials and songs and if people tell me the simplest stories. I always laugh and tell him that’s because I have a heart! I’m also 150% sold on the fact that people invest in people. But you know, these people aren’t just clients. They have big things happening and they have hard things happening. For an hour or two, we can give them an outlet to forget all the tough things happening. Or to just enjoy the moments happening around them and to soak it all in because it doesn’t matter, we have you covered on the “proof”. 

I hope whatever is happening in your life right now you take a moment to celebrate a small victory. May it be that all the laundry is done for the first time in 3 weeks. A peaceful night’s rest after several anxious nights. Supper before 7 pm. Kids in bed on time without a fight. Whatever it may be revel in it for just a minute. 

I guess the whole point of my schpeel is that in taking a step back, looking at what’s important and being grateful for all that’s set before us, I’m so very thankful for people that trust Clay and I will special moments. Raw moments. Timing that stings and a little and timing that makes your heart want to burst you couldn’t be happier. Photos has opened up a door of service I didn’t know existed and that’s saying something when I stand behind the chair most days and feel like a therapist (which I am also incredibly grateful for!)! Big feels on a Tuesday. Hope you have an incredible rest of the week; remind yourself to just take a minute this week. 

-Ty 

Ty & Clay from 2017 when we didn’t have a CLUE everything we would get to be apart of together.

Winter Run, and Done

Here we are, already March! Time is a thief, isn’t it!? Hope this finds you well: healthy, warm and still reaching your New Years resolution goals (wink, wink). The last time we caught up we were just getting home from the Montana Circuit Finals, doing laundry to turn around and head to Rapid for Rodeo Rapid City. We finished up a couple weekends ago with Grand Island and somehow found ourselves at home.

Rodeo Rapid City was a HUGE success. The Monument Arena is beautiful and Sutton Rodeo packed in the fans for 7 great performances. With a new building came new challenges but also some exciting opportunities. Clay got to hang his lights, had some wiggle room to lay down, his own space so he hauled his iMac (which was efficient for working on photos between events) and got to bring our good friend Click Thompson to share in the fun. I can’t imagine how they will top it next year but there is no doubt in my mind that they will!

The end of February took us to Nebraska. Rodeo Grand Island is a growing rodeo that shares the weekend with local horses races. The fans there are like no other; they are here to have a good time, enjoy each other’s company and watch great rodeo, my kind of people for sure! Again Clay got to hang lights here and a group of us even ran spots for Haley Proctor (don’t worry it was only in the practice pen, although I think we could have been hired for the performances, we were all willing and able if needed, ha!).

Our time on the road this winter definitely wasn’t short on good company. it’s always an awesome time working with the Suttons. They bring in the best crew and it doesn’t really feel like work (we are the lucky ones for sure!) I mentioned earlier our friend Click Thompson joined us. It was fun to have another photographer on board with us and we got to share some fun travel time together as well (you know I made him stop at all the South Dakota things, think…Corn Palace, Wall Drug. All of them!) Katherine Merck also came along for the ride. Our friends Sylvan and Paige made the trip to Rapid as well for the college fair (only saw them for a split second but was so happy they could experience it.) The best thing about what we do are all the connections we make along the way!

The elephant in the room is the proposal! That’s for another day though :) I can’t wait to share all the details with all of you. We are home now for a few months, planning a wedding, shooting some local events and gearing up for an action packed summer. 2022 is going to be great. Stay tuned!

-T (& Clay)

Long Time, No See

*tap*tap*tap* 

Is this thing on? Anyone there? Can you hear me now? 

So it’s been a minute. And I need to apologize for that. We hit the ground running and never stopped (until COVID stopped us in our tracks in Vegas). I want to be better in 2022 in keeping our village in the loop. Maybe more conscious about whats happening around me and relaying that to those around us that are so supportive! 

Round 5 of the 2021 WNFR.

2021 brought growth, which with that comes some pains but all worth it. We were mostly humbled by every phone call, text, message and email that came through to us to schedule a session. I was blown away by our community support this year. Creating an one-of-kind experience was one of my top priorities for the year. I think we nailed it. We presented some amazing images that I was so excited to be apart of. Tagging alongside Clay has quickly become a passion for me as well. Although I’m biased I think our love of what we do shows in his collections. 

I’m still working on the miles traveled because you know, taxes. But I do know we shot over 122 events in 2021. That is incredible. Just thinking about it makes me want a nap. Clay and I bought some new furniture in March and when it got delivered I looked at him and said, “Not sure why we bought this. I guess we will sit on it in December.” Karma is a real thing people. But in this case, nothing to complain about at all.

Added to the resume in 2021: Montana Circuit Finals (in the dead of winter across the mountains), local teen hockey tournament, Ram National Circuit Finals (Clay saw the ocean for the first time), family branding (our families got to collide for the day), product photography for a local boutique Adorn (such a fun opportunity for both of us), a home BBQ to host some of our favorites at our hometown rodeo, a golf membership, Pendleton Round-Up (an incredible experience that EVERYONE should experience), and we went out with a bang, covid (In all seriousness, the let down of leaving the NFR is something I hope no one has to experience. We were humbled and excited to add year three to the notch but we will settle for two and a half and keep digging for the next one!).  On top of all the new, we upped our senior and family count to a new level. We are so appreciative to those who trust us with precious memories. Lots of laughs and new connections makes for going into 2022 even more appealing. 

If you got this far, thanks! You’re a pal! I’m a little long winded this time because it’s been so long. I never know if people are actually interested in what’s happening with the mustache man and me but it feels good to write. Someone told me one time it’s time to start a book; they aren’t wrong. This part of my life has been a dream come true; I’ve met some of the most selfless people that would do anything for us and Clay and I have made life long connections we can’t imagine our life without. I’ve said it a million times and I’ll say it again, we live the dang good life. 

What’s in store for 2022 you ask? The same! Lots of dates booked up already: seniors, families, weddings and of course we filled up some of our favorite weekends with top notch rodeos. For me personally this year I want to be around my people that bring me good energy and support. I want to hug (not your gig, watch out :)), I want to speak what’s on my mind but be respectful of everyone’s opinion as there are so many out there right now. And lastly, pay attention. Pay attention to those around me, what drives my heart to flutter, to the life that I want to create. I’m trusting in the fact that some of the most incredible moments of my life are yet to happen. 

I hope this finds you with your health, some happiness and room for growth! Happy New Year from RodeoReady. 

Love, 

T (& Clay) 

My all-time favorite photo from 2021. I high recommend eating a peach cobbler sundae with your favorite person in the sunshine. Soul filler. ☀️🍊

Post NFR Outlook

Everyone has been asking, “How was Texas?” Of course it was different, we weren't in Vegas, we were in Texas. However we welcomed change with open arms and were just humbled that we were even headed down the road again.

I tell everyone it was the perfect storm for Clay. A massive arena with non limiting access and stadium lights!? Hello! I kindly removed myself from the media closet in the tunnel and positioned myself in the media box up top; I was able to watch all ten rounds LIVE and I really did enjoy the atmosphere. We all love the Thomas & Mack. It has a very intimate feel and feels like home for the NFR, I mean it has been held there since 1985. I don’t want to have the unpopular opinion but the stadium, to me, felt like a great fit. The lighting was incredible, horses and cowboys had room to move and it felt more of the caliber of a show! I do believe some people thought it was a more relaxed as the seating is spread out. I will be very interested to see how the event evolves in the coming years.

I will say due to COVID we laid pretty low. We didn’t venture far from the hotel, the traffic was way easier to navigate (except the night Clay turned me into traffic at the AT&T stadium and I got yelled at by a local police office; we survived), it took less time to find your hotel room because you weren’t wandering through an entire casino before bed, and we ran into less people. Some events that Clay had to photograph were in Ft. Worth which was 18 miles from our hotel. I heard various complaints about how spread out things were. I also wanted to remind everyone that because NFR has been in Vegas since 1985, it’s established. Texas stepped up to the plate for us in such an uncertain time and put on a phenomenal show and was very accommodating.

In 2020 we MISSED our people! So of course it was so nice to catch up with our circle while in Texas. We caught up with Amy and Steven Muller for supper, made our stop at the American Hat Store and pestered Cody Crawford for awhile, ran into Miss Rodeo America and Steve and Kim Sutton before the gala event, Clay held Kim’s flower after the women’s luncheon while she called for a ride, heckled with announcer Kory Keeth and bullfighter Sylvan La Cross at their booth for the convention, wandered around with my parents at the Stockyards, snagged a quick photo with pickup man Brent Sutton and fiancé Roz Beaton and of course, talked photos all week long with our great friend and fellow photographer Steve Grey. Like everyone we are hoping for a smoother 2021 and less cancelled events. We have already photographed two weddings, the Montana Circuit Finals and we are currently at Rodeo Rapid City with the great Sutton Family!

February has a couple of events on the books and we are already starting to schedule some more family photos and seniors. AND we have only had to shovel a handful of times. If it snows in May it probably won’t last long. We are on the downhill winter stretch people!

Stay tuned for updates from Rodeo Rapid City!

-Ty (&Clay)

2020 in a Nut Shell

I have to apologize that I have been so disconnected to this space for awhile. Like so many, 2020 was a “what the heck is happening” reality for us. We decided that it was sink or swim so we took a step back, looked at our strengths, took some really interesting risks and it’s paid off! I’m really not trying to pat ourselves on the back but more or less, take a deep breath and say somehow, we made it. We aren’t in the clear yet I don’t think but as I’m writing this, I’m sitting on a bed in Arlington, Texas waiting for my COVID test to come back, to ensure our spot in Clay shooting the 2020 NFR and that I am able to assist him. 

So what’s been going on you ask? The last time I updated we had just gotten back from Grand Island and we were self isolating as a new normal. April and May consisted of Porch Sessions. We had seen a couple other photographers doing the #FrontPorchProject so with a little encouragement from my big brother, we decided to try it! We found a house we loved so May and June consisted of buying our first home. Super exciting, super stressful! Buy a house during a pandemic, great idea! All summer we had the opportunity to photograph various seniors and families. 

Home Sweet Home

We broke in our new deck with great friends! Summer didn’t last long enough!

Over the 4th of July we were lucky enough to head to a rodeo! What!? Rodeo is happening during COVID!? We were so lucky and happy that New West Rodeo Productions asked us back and it felt great to be back in the dirt! We also were asked back to the National Circuit Finals of Steer Roping which was held in Torrington, WY. August also provided more rodeos on the calendar and we were feeling lucky to have some normalcy. 

This fall I bet you’ll never guess what happened? More photos! We had the opportunity to shoot a couple of weddings for some great couples. More seniors and more families filled in the books, all while still settling into our new home. We waited for what seemed like FOREVER to hear about the National Finals Rodeo. We decided that if Clay wasn’t chosen to shoot the event that we would sit this year out. The more I thought about it, having the event moved due to COVID, this was ABSOLUTELY the year to photograph the event. This was major history. I prayed so hard for that guy. He called one day when we thought for sure 2020 wasn’t his year and asked what I was going to order at Joe’s Crap Shack (traveling is all about food for this guy!). We ate there last night with our good friend Steve Gray, who is the other behind the scenes photographer. 

So here we are. We made it. We are in Arlington, Texas and shooting at Globe Life Field for the 2020 National Finals Rodeo. I plan to do a recap after the 10 days is up so stay tuned for that. Follow both Clay and I on social media to keep up during our time here in Texas. 

So grateful to be here. 

-Ty & Clay 

Self Isolation Day ?

Here we are! Self isolating as best we can; cranking out orders, cleaning, laundry, snuggling our pups and watching ridiculous documentaries until the wee morning hours. How are you holding up!? What’s been your crazy isolation go-to?

Honestly I think it’s a good thing. It’s forcing everyone to slow down and from the words of my sweet Grams “reminding people they have a family.” How sad is that? Our society is so go-go-go that we forget about those around us that help our world go round from day to day. I have recognized I don’t like being told what my schedule is, where I can and can not go and that I like to be around my people! We are no different in the fact of being so go-go-go. We are taking this time to bounce ideas off one another, coming up with a plan for when “it” passes and finding light in what makes our world go round: our pups, our family, and the hope and faith of the future! This to shall pass, people!

Rewinding back to our the end of February, we spent some time with new friends Olie and Brenna of Olie’s Images. We joined forces with 4 other photographers to take on the Patriot event. What an experience! It was so nice to work with another photographer, seeing how they run things, prepare for a huge event and how their system differs or is the same as our own. Olie and Brenna took us to Fossil Rim Wildlife Park and we ate some great food (only H3 Ranch once!). It was so refreshing to me to connect with these two as they get what we are trying to accomplish and although our businesses are different they are so similar on a lot of levels! Thanks again Olie and Brenna for having us, hope you guys are all caught up and enjoying some relaxation before all this passes and it get CRAZY!

I do have to say our highlight from Texas was experiencing The American. Wow. What a place! AT&T stadium was HUGE and beautiful and to house a sport we all love so much was breathtaking! We ran into our good friend Jordan Tierney, Miss Rodeo America. So great seeing a familiar face so far from home. It was an A+ rodeo and an incredible set up. I was so happy to be apart of it.

Upon returning home from Texas, we turned back south to head to Grand Island, Nebraska for Rodeo Grand Island. This was last weekend and was kind of the start when everyone was cancelling everything. We caught up with Sutton Rodeo there and again they put on a heck of a production despite the trying time. I think people were excited to get out and just forget for a couple of hours! It’s a growing rodeo and runs hand in hand with the Fonner Park Horse Racing. You should definitely add to your schedule for next March, such a fun atmosphere with loads of options during the day. We were so happy to catch up with the crew in such an unknown time, hoping we can all cross paths again real soon!

We know so many people (like ourselves) are wondering “What now?” But rest assured we will get through it together. Hug your pups, listen to music, take a nap, go through that closet, read a book, watch a movie as a family, send the kids outside, watch the grass turn green. Simply recharge. Easier said than done but please take care of yourself and those around you! We are sending all the positive vibes in all the directions and know you aren’t alone! Find hope in the sunshine my friends and remember, this too shall pass.

“For though I fall I will rise again. Though I sit in darkness The Lord will be my light.” Micah 7:8

-Ty (&Clay)

Rodeo Rapid City 2020

Home again, unpacked, photos galore and onto the next one! We got home from Rapid City, SD a week ago! Unfortunately while we were there we both contracted a nasty cold and Clay battled a 24 hour flu bug. We are on the mend with some lingering coughs and have welcomed the warm(er) weather, like everyone else!

We dove in right away Thursday morning, after we drove through some nasty fog Wednesday night. We were happy to see the lights of Rapid! Sutton Rodeo produced yet another amazing event! South Dakota is so lucky this family calls it home! I helped the ladies out in the office this year and of course Clay worked his magic behind the lens!

They had an all-star line up to help the week run smoothly including: the Sutton family themselves, Will Rasmussen, Keith Isley, Jersey Jake Ostrum, Jessi Franzen and Shae Heitsch. So many moving parts and everyone helped out so that everything ran smoothly! We are so happy they included us on the crew!

The list of events was awesome: Xtreme Bull Riding, 20X High School Showcase, Ranch Rodeo, PRCA slack, Bucking Horse Futurity, Bucking Horse Sale, Xtreme Bronc Match, Ultimate Bull Fighting, Mounted Shooting, Rodney Yost Horsemanship and of course PRCA rodeos.

You can catch Sutton Rodeo on the road March 13-14 in Grand Island, NE. There will be Xtreme Bulls and two PRCA rodeo performances, along with some horse racing at their great facility! Don’t miss out on Rodeo Grand Island. Also be sure to add Rodeo Rapid City to your calendar for 2021: January 29th-February 6th! The 43rd annual Rodeo Rapid City that has been up for Large Indoor Rodeo of the year 18 times is only going to get better from here!

Next week, Clay and I are headed to Texas to help out Olie’s Images on the road for about two weeks in Ft. Worth. We are really looking forward to working on a new team. When we head home, we will turn around and head to Grand Island for Rodeo Grand Island for a long weekend. Stay tuned, 2020 is heating up!

-Ty (& Clay)

RodeoReady Eats

One of our favorite things about traveling is the food. If you have ever been around Clay, you know he is always wondering about his next meal. If you have ever been around me, you know that I am always down to eat great food (probably too much-ha!). Don’t get me wrong, we thoroughly enjoy a good McDonald’s run but when we put on the miles we really try to be strategic about grocery shopping and we are always looking for the next local favorite.

Eating on the road is a fine art. If you don’t take time to grocery shop or be strategic about your planning your asking for belly aches and many gas station stops. We’ve definitely gotten better about what we pack and how we plan, however there are always the trips your running around crazy and wonder, “Did we eat today”?”. Trust me, we aren’t the experts but we are learning.

Homemade chicken strips for the win!

The Chicken Shack is a local chicken strip joint in Las Vegas that we stumbled upon in 2018. It’s become one of our favorites and we frequent it every time we get to town! Hand breaded chicken strips, overwhelming amounts of fries and homemade sauces are a few of their staples. We can share a basket and get full. So tasty and the atmosphere is bright and quirky, totally up our alley!

Mexican Cuisine: our love language. You had me at chips and salsa. We have a fabulous local Mexican restaurant right here in Mitchell that we frequent quite often! But usually when we are on the road we hit one up least once. Honestly we could make a meal out of chips and salsa ourselves (just like the rest of the world) but we always seem to find SOMETHING on the menu worth ordering!

The Tomahawk at Dakotah Steakhouse is amazing.

Probably one of our favorite places to find is the local steakhouses. The service is usually great, the steaks are on point and the dessert has your mouth watering before it hits the table. This adorable little steakhouse we came upon by chance and a blizzard, was set up as a fast-food-style-order-up restaurant. Complete with a cutting board as your plate but made to order, the steaks had amazing flavor and the atmosphere had a small town diner feel. Another favorite, recommended by the Sutton family, was in Grand Island, NE, Tommy Gunz Bistro. They had wine and whiskey via vending machine. Honestly I would go back just for the dessert, but the steaks was amazing as well.

Who doesn’t love a good burger at a shack and fire wood pizza? That’s usually one of the first things that we google when we are headed somewhere. We have snagged some delicious hole-in-the-wall dinners and we have also walked out saying, “we ain’t doin’ that again!”. I love finding out what each place’s specialty is and we usually order it; more often than not they know what they’re talking about!

As much as we love being on the road, we always love to come back home. This past summer, my Grams sent her peaches on the road with us. A great snack on a 14 hour drive, it was a taste of home for us. Our families plan entire events about the food that we will prepare and consume so it’s hard not be excited about what we will eat when we get home (although I’m not a huge fan of that first initial grocery store run when we’ve been gone!). My mom got us a air fryer for Christmas and my life in the kitchen is forever changed! Share your favorite recipes in the comments!

Grams’ Colorado Peaches

A little water, a little sugar, a whole lot of home.

One may think it’s ridiculous we plan so much of our travels scouting for eateries and restaurants but don’t be fooled, some of our best times are sharing meals with those we love around a table! “The fondest memories are made when gathered around the table.” Don’t ever be afraid to ask Clay or I out for something to eat; it’s where we do our best brainstorming, connecting and laughing. We hope to run into you soon!

-Ty (& Clay)

2020

Again, here we are. 2020. 2019, gone in a flash! Our last month was a whirl wind, if you followed along on our social media I’m sure you gathered that much! The last time we caught up with you was while we were in Ft. Worth. We then hit the highway to Wickenburg, AZ where we got to spend some much needed time with Clay’s family and celebrated Thanksgiving. We put on 1,910 miles before we even made it to Sin City.

Rare sighting of Clay driving.

We headed out early Monday morning to Vegas. We had no idea what to expect; excited, nervous, humbled and ready. I could’ve burst I was so happy for Clay and he was so tired of hearing it by the time we hit Las Vegas city limits (haha!). We moved into our home (the MGM Grand) for the next two weeks and hit the ground running. Our first order of business was recording our first podcast, which I highly recommend subscribing to on iTunes and Spotify, The RodeoReady Podcast. We had our good friend Sylvan as our first guest, along with some new friends Caylee and Cade listen in while we worked on things. Some good laughs, awkward silences and a 39 minutes podcast later and we had the first one under our belt! Definitely a learning curve but we are excited to be stepping out of our box!

The next couple of days we got to catch up with people we travel with at the Back Number Ceremony and the Personnel Awards Banquet. A whole lot of talent was packed into one room and we felt real lucky to be in their presence. It was also kind of fun to get dolled up with everyone! Clay received his jacket and his NFR buckle. We are small fish, so this was SUPER exciting, a moment I won’t soon forget. We met up with the other photographers and got acquainted with everyone we would be working with over the course of the next 10 days. I personally think we were all a great team. We shared some great laughs, some late nights and thousands of photos.

Clay and I both love Las Vegas during the NFR. It feels like you know everyone, there are cowboy hats everywhere and people feel like family! We spent some time on the road with Miss Rodeo South Dakota Jordan Tierney, who was so deservingly crowned Miss Rodeo America 2020. It was so fun to watch her journey unfold and we are so excited for her year ahead! We also caught up with our good friend Morgan Straub, who carried the Pendleton flag as a flag girl at the 2019 NFR. Our paths crossed a lot with those we share the road with during the rodeo season! It’s so fun to have everyone in one spot.

I wish I would have kept a journal while we were in Vegas. I can’t write every story, every memory, and every emotion. We are so humbled by everyone’s kindness and all those that reached out to us while we were traveling. Because of all your support we get to do what we love and keep grinding. Can’t wait to show you some of the amazing shots that Clay got when he was shooting! Somehow, we made it! And we are so excited for the future!

-Ty (& Clay)

En Route

Well. Here we are again. Behind. Seems to be a trend around here. We caught up with some great friends at the Brookings PRCA. Headed home to keep grinding ALL the gears, beat some sickness and tied up all the loose ends so we could pack up for NFR 2019.

Clay and I had the pleasure of photographing the most OUTGOING family on their place just south of Mitchell and it was a blast. We are so happy they fought thru the cold with us so we could capture their growing family. It was the Christmas gift for their parents last year, just in time for Christmas cards this year! (Uh yes, we do gift certificates and we travel! Perfect gift for your mama 😉) We also enjoyed a beautiful Sunday after with two seniors that are counting down the days til graduation.

Saturday we enjoyed a family wedding that we also had the privilege to photograph. Payleen and Levi, we were so honored you asked us to capture your day; can’t wait to share your sneak peek with you! Up early Sunday, we headed south to the Lone Star State. 12 hours in the car, a little detour on an express lane (if anyone has any information on that we will gladly expect it!), our first time on a toll road and we found ourselves downtown at the Ft. Worth Stockyards to stay the night.

This morning we wandered around the amazing shops the Stockyards have to offer. If you’ve never been, it’s a sight. My wishlist has grown in length for sure and I found some treasures. Today we found ourselves at The Best Hat Store. Clay snagged a new lid, stay tuned for photos. The whole reason for our detour to #NFR2019 was to meet with Panhandle Slim. They outfitted Clay for the finals and it was so nice to put a face to the name that we have been chatting with. Thanks Leslie for a great afternoon and for welcoming us with open arms to Texas. We are so excited to be working with you!

So here we are, tucked in tight and headed out bright and early tomorrow morning to head to Wickenburg, AZ to spend the holiday weekend with Clay’s family, a little R and R before we head out for #NFR2019! Whose going!? Where we going to see you!? Touch base with us and say hello, we love to see our favorites out on the road! Stay tuned, we are just getting started!

-Ty (& Clay).